Prominantly Labeled Sockets?

[Snap50]

Besides Craftsman, does anyone make sockets with sizable size labels?
Perhaps stamped before chroming?

 

[skeletonizer]

Besides Craftsman, does anyone make sockets with sizable size labels?
Perhaps stamped before chroming?

I don't care how big Craftsman makes those laser etched markings in the chrome they still **** and are hard to read in most light.

It seems that the MasterHand brand at Tractor Supply has large markings if I recall correctly.

 

[Snap50]

Not necessarily looking for huge, just prominent.
Also, USA manufactured is important.

 

[Rnz520]

Matco red markings are very easy to read and I like them a lot

 

[Az Scooter]

Harbor Freight, and Husky (home depot) both have large markings.

 

[Fedwrench]

Two choices come to mind. First, and easiest to read are the blue (metric) and red (sae) epoxy type markings from Matco. They last forever and are easy to read even when faded. Second choice would be Gearwrench. Gearwrench have the size stamped inside a circle on the middle of two sides of the socket.As the socket is used and gets dirty, it's easier to read. One good thing about the Gearwrench and Matco sockets is that they mark the sockets on two sides for quicker identification.
This is much better than the Armstrong or Craftsman dual marked type sockets where they place the laser etching above the stamped size so, you have two size markings in the same spot.

 

[Snap50]

Thanks guys.
Based on the prices it appears that Harbor Freight, Husky and Gearwrench are probably asian imports. I consider buying American as part of my responsibilities.

 

[X1 Mike]

I agree with the majority of the posters, the Matco's are the easiest to read. My only problem with them is that I don't like the font, I would like it to be more bold.

 

[Snap50]

Thanks all.

I saw the Craftsmen today and I think it's wasted effort on their part. There is not enough contrast to make the etching stand out.

The Matco inspires a personal look.

 

[Rnz520]

If you really want good sockets get the Matcos. Now while Gearwrench is an import it has nothing to envy from Cman and honestly has better quality control.

 

[tjmonsen5]

I have the craftsman with the large markings, i find them very easy to read. I hate the tiny labels on most sockets.

 

[Fedwrench]

Since you only want a US made product, you may want to consider SK. They don't have any large markings or laser etchings on the middle of the socket but, they do have deep stamped markings at the base of the socket that are easy to read especially as they fill with grease and grime from use.

 

[Snap50]

Since you only want a US made product, you may want to consider SK. They don't have any large markings or laser etchings on the middle of the socket but, they do have deep stamped markings at the base of the socket that are easy to read especially as they fill with grease and grime from use.

I have several SK sets. Have gotten to the age that it's a fumbling game of just eyeing the physical sizes rather than trying to read the stampings. The SKs are deeply imprinted but the font is small, about 1/8" tall. And I tend to keep all the tools clean (and thus the hands) to keep good relations with my Architect clients who take appearances to heart.

Thanks for the suggestion. I think Matco is the ticket.

 

[usmc_noma]

if you can find the usa made blackhawk by proto, imo i think they're prominent and easy to read.